The last line of the 2010 remake of the movie “True Grit” is much different than the original 1969 version. In the remake, Adult Mattie is recounting what has gone since the completion of her journey with Rooster Cogburn, and in a completely astonishing manner, she utters the words “Time just gets away from us…” as she is walking away from the family cemetery. I was so taken aback that I had to watch it several times, just letting that sink in.

I just turned 62, and those words keep resounding in my head. I have 4 kids, one who is married with a beautiful grandson I get to see quite often, another who is about to be married, and two more who are well-established in this life, and who make me shake my head at how successful they are, despite my best efforts.

I am attempting to be more purposeful these days, with both family AND friends, making sure I don’t have many chances to have regrets. I’m sure I will still have some from time to time, but I’d rather be deliberate in sharing life in a way that builds them up and brings glory to the Lord. Otherwise, time DOES just get away from you…